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The Secret to Being Happy in 2026? It’s Far, Far Simpler Than You Think. AI-Generated.
As we look toward the future, many of us are grappling with the complexities of modern life: the constant hustle, the pressures to perform, the desire to keep up with changing technologies, and, of course, the pursuit of happiness. Yet, as we march into 2026, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the secret to true happiness may not lie in grand achievements, material wealth, or social media accolades—but in simple, everyday choices. While we are bombarded with messages telling us that happiness requires constant striving, success, or buying the latest gadgets, the truth is that being happy in 2026 (and beyond) may be much more about slowing down and savoring the moments that truly matter. So, how do we find that elusive happiness? It all starts with embracing the simple pleasures in life. Here are a few ways to make happiness not just a fleeting emotion, but a constant companion in your journey forward. 1. Prioritize Relationships Over Possessions One of the most profound revelations about happiness is that it’s not about what we own, but the relationships we cultivate. As we look forward to 2026, it’s essential to remind ourselves that time spent with family and friends is far more valuable than the latest car, phone, or fashion trend. According to numerous studies on well-being, strong social connections and meaningful relationships are the key to sustained happiness. We thrive when we connect deeply with others, listen to their stories, and share our own. If you want to be truly happy in 2026, invest in your relationships. Spend more time with the people who make you laugh, challenge you, and offer support during difficult times. And don’t just spend time with them—be present. Put down your phone, look them in the eyes, and truly engage. These seemingly small moments will create a lifetime of memories and happiness. 2. Practice Gratitude Daily Gratitude is a powerful tool that can shift your mindset from one of scarcity to one of abundance. In a world where we are often focused on what we lack, taking time each day to reflect on what we already have can change everything. Gratitude rewires the brain to focus on the positive aspects of life, helping us appreciate the present moment. Start small: Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. It could be something as simple as a good cup of coffee, a friendly smile, or the warmth of your home. Over time, you’ll start to notice that your mindset shifts and you become more attuned to the joy that already surrounds you. Gratitude fosters contentment, which is a cornerstone of happiness. 3. Simplify Your Life In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the cycle of doing more, buying more, and achieving more. But often, it's the simple things that bring the most joy. If you're feeling overwhelmed, it might be time to simplify. Declutter your space, streamline your schedule, and let go of the things that are no longer serving you. Creating a more organized, less cluttered environment can have a profound effect on your mental well-being. When you're not constantly battling distractions, you're able to focus on what truly brings you joy—whether that's reading a good book, going for a walk, or simply being present in the moment. 4. Embrace the Present Moment As technology advances, we often find ourselves distracted, constantly thinking about the future or reflecting on the past. But the key to happiness lies in living fully in the present moment. The more present we are, the more we experience the beauty of life as it unfolds. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help you stay grounded in the present. These practices not only reduce stress but also increase overall happiness by allowing you to truly experience the world around you. Whether you're savoring a meal, taking in the beauty of nature, or simply enjoying a conversation, being present allows you to connect deeply with your surroundings and the people in your life. 5. Engage in Acts of Kindness Research has shown that one of the quickest ways to feel happier is by doing something kind for someone else. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, have a ripple effect. When you help others, whether by volunteering, offering a kind word, or lending a hand, you not only make their day better but also boost your own sense of well-being. In 2026, consider making kindness a daily habit. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture—sometimes, it’s as simple as helping a neighbor with their groceries or offering a listening ear to someone in need. These small acts of kindness can transform both your life and the lives of those around you. 6. Focus on Well-Being, Not Perfection In the quest for happiness, many of us strive for perfection. However, chasing perfection can lead to frustration, stress, and burnout. Instead, focus on well-being. This includes taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. Whether it's through regular exercise, getting enough sleep, or seeking support when needed, well-being should be your priority. Remember, happiness doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being content with who you are and embracing your flaws. In 2026, choose self-compassion over self-criticism and strive for progress, not perfection. Conclusion: Simplicity is Key As we move into 2026, it’s clear that the secret to happiness doesn’t lie in complicated strategies or material pursuits. It’s in the simple joys of life—the relationships we nurture, the gratitude we practice, the mindfulness we cultivate, and the acts of kindness we offer. By embracing these simple habits, you’ll discover that happiness is not something you have to chase but something you can create by making intentional choices every day. When you focus on the simple things that truly matter, happiness will follow naturally, lighting up your life in ways you never thought possible.
By Fiaz Ahmed Brohiabout a month ago in Geeks
The Power of Letting Your Children Fail: A Parenting Lesson from the CEOs of YouTube and 23andMe. AI-Generated.
In a world where success is often equated with perfection, the concept of failure can seem intimidating. However, for many successful leaders, failure has been an essential stepping stone in their journey. This principle is particularly evident in the stories of two exceptional women, whose achievements are not only a testament to their intelligence and work ethic but also to the invaluable life lessons they learned from their parents. The story of my daughters, who attended prestigious universities such as Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, and went on to become the CEOs of YouTube and 23andMe, showcases how allowing them to experience failure can ultimately make them stronger and more resilient leaders. A Foundation Built on Trust, Not Protection As a parent, one of the hardest things to do is to watch your child struggle. Our natural instinct is to protect them from disappointment, pain, and failure. We want to shield them from hardship, believing that overcoming challenges is something to be avoided. However, as my daughters grew older and their ambitions took shape, I realized that the lessons learned from failure are far more important than avoiding it. From an early age, both daughters were encouraged to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them. The pressure to achieve could have been immense, especially when surrounded by the academic excellence of their peers. But, instead of always intervening to smooth their path, my role as a parent was to let them face challenges head-on. When they did fail, we viewed it not as a setback but as an opportunity to grow. The Role of Failure in Shaping Leaders The story of my daughters’ path to leadership positions at YouTube and 23andMe didn’t follow a linear trajectory. They encountered plenty of hurdles along the way, both personally and professionally. But those moments of failure and disappointment were key in shaping the leaders they are today. Take YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki, for example. Susan, who graduated from Harvard University, faced numerous rejections and setbacks early in her career. But instead of accepting defeat, she used each challenge to push forward. When she joined Google, the company was still in its infancy, and the journey was far from smooth. However, it was those initial failures that provided her with the strength and experience needed to lead YouTube through its biggest transitions and challenges. Similarly, Anne Wojcicki, the co-founder and CEO of 23andMe, faced her own set of struggles. Despite being educated at Yale and having the intellectual capital to succeed, her career didn’t take off immediately. She had to face countless doubts, skepticism from investors, and challenges in the highly competitive biotech industry. But she learned to persevere, to pivot when necessary, and to rely on the lessons learned from early missteps to guide her decisions. The Value of Perseverance Over Perfection A key element in both Susan and Anne’s rise to leadership roles was their ability to persist despite early failures. In a world that constantly pressures people to be flawless, the ability to accept imperfections and use them as fuel for growth is an invaluable skill. By letting my daughters fail, I allowed them to develop resilience—the kind that doesn’t break under pressure but instead finds creative solutions, learns from mistakes, and moves forward stronger. Today, both women exhibit a leadership style rooted in empathy and understanding—traits that are often developed through experiencing failure. They understand that setbacks are a part of life and that leaders are not those who avoid failure but those who embrace it and learn from it. The lessons they learned from their early experiences have made them stronger, more compassionate, and more innovative leaders. Failure Builds Confidence and Self-Reliance One of the greatest gifts I could give my daughters was the confidence to trust their instincts. This trust developed not from always succeeding but from the ability to bounce back after a failure. As they encountered failure in various forms, whether in school, internships, or early jobs, they learned to analyze the situation, adapt, and move on. They learned to rely on themselves and their decisions—knowing that failure was not a reflection of their worth but an opportunity for growth. Now, as CEOs of two of the most influential companies in the world, they lead teams with this same mindset. They encourage their teams to take risks, to fail, and to learn from it. They understand that leadership is not about avoiding mistakes but about how you respond to them. It’s this resilience that has helped them navigate the complexities of leading large organizations. Letting Them Fail: The Greatest Parenting Lesson Reflecting on their journeys, I realize that the most important lesson I ever gave my daughters was not one of success, but of failure. I didn’t shield them from the challenges that life threw their way. Instead, I let them face them head-on. And in doing so, I gave them the greatest gift: the ability to turn failure into a stepping stone for greater success. In today’s competitive world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that success comes easily for those at the top. But for my daughters, the road to leadership was paved with failures, each of which contributed to their growth and success. Allowing them to fail didn’t just make them stronger—it made them the leaders they are today. Conclusion: The Power of Letting Go As a parent, it’s crucial to understand that failure is not something to be feared or avoided. Instead, it should be seen as an opportunity for growth. Just as Susan and Anne learned from their experiences, so too can we all find strength in the face of adversity. By allowing our children the freedom to fail, we give them the tools they need to thrive. Leadership isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about learning from it and continuing to move forward. Ultimately, the most important lesson is this: Letting your children fail is not a sign of neglect; it’s an act of trust. By doing so, you empower them to become the leaders of tomorrow, confident in their ability to overcome any challenge.
By Fiaz Ahmed Brohiabout a month ago in Geeks
My Mother Repeated One Idiom Throughout My Life: ‘You Want Beauty, You Don’t Want Life’ - A Reflection on Inner and Outer Beauty. AI-Generated.
Throughout my life, my mother would often repeat a particular idiom that resonated deeply with me: “You want beauty, you don’t want life.” At first, the meaning was lost on me, as many sayings from a mother often are when we are younger. But as I grew older and faced the complexities of life, love, and personal growth, the words took on deeper significance. It became a reflection not just of superficial appearances, but of the profound truths that lie beneath the surface of our desires, choices, and actions. The Meaning Behind the Words The phrase, “You want beauty, you don’t want life,” isn’t just a simple statement about looks or vanity; it’s a life lesson about the deeper values of what it means to live a fulfilling life. My mother, like many parents, wanted me to understand that the pursuit of beauty — whether physical, external, or even fleeting forms of superficial success — often comes with sacrifices that diminish the essence of living fully. What my mother was trying to convey is that, while beauty can be alluring, it is only a temporary and shallow pursuit when disconnected from the deeper, more meaningful aspects of life. Beauty — particularly physical beauty — is a fleeting and fragile thing. It can fade with time, age, and external forces. But life, in all its complexity, is much more than what can be seen on the surface. It encompasses experiences, relationships, and personal growth, things that last long after beauty fades. The Pressure of Societal Expectations In today’s world, we are constantly bombarded with images of perfection. Social media, advertising, and popular culture often place beauty, success, and image at the forefront of our lives. From the airbrushed photographs of celebrities to the curated lives people present online, we are led to believe that beauty — whether it’s body image, fashion, or wealth — is a measure of our worth. This societal pressure to look a certain way, achieve a specific kind of beauty, and maintain that beauty can be overwhelming. Yet, my mother’s words serve as a reminder that these pressures often come at a cost. People who focus solely on external beauty can sometimes find themselves trapped in a cycle of self-doubt, insecurity, and dissatisfaction. Pursuing beauty for beauty’s sake can distract us from the richness of life itself: the joy of learning, the bonds of family, the excitement of personal growth, and the importance of self-love and self-acceptance. Life is full of complexities, challenges, and imperfections, and it’s in navigating these with grace, resilience, and wisdom that true beauty emerges. The Connection Between Inner and Outer Beauty Over the years, I began to understand that beauty and life are intertwined, but not in the way many people think. My mother’s idiom helped me to realize that true beauty is not just skin deep — it is born from within. It is an energy, a way of being, a sense of purpose that radiates outward. People who have lived rich, meaningful lives, who have cultivated kindness, compassion, and authenticity, exude a different kind of beauty than those who have solely focused on appearance. In my own life, I came to appreciate that personal growth and authenticity are the keys to true beauty. As we mature, we realize that external beauty can be fleeting, but the things we learn, the kindness we extend to others, and the strength we build from overcoming life’s challenges are the things that define us in the long run. I also realized that pursuing the deeper aspects of life, such as connection, purpose, and inner peace, leads to a lasting form of beauty. It is the beauty of a life well-lived — one that is filled with rich experiences and meaningful relationships, not just fleeting moments of superficial pleasure. The Power of Perspective As I reflect on my mother’s words, I also think about how they encourage a change in perspective. When we stop measuring our worth solely based on how we look or what others think of us, we begin to live more authentically. Life becomes less about trying to fit into someone else’s idea of beauty and more about embracing who we truly are. We can prioritize the things that truly matter: our health, our relationships, our growth, and our contribution to the world around us. This perspective is liberating. It allows us to live freely, unburdened by societal standards of beauty and success. It allows us to be at peace with ourselves, knowing that true beauty lies in who we are — not in how we are perceived. Embracing the Fullness of Life My mother’s idiom, “You want beauty, you don’t want life,” is a reminder that we should not sacrifice the richness of life for something as fleeting as external beauty. While beauty can be important and is a wonderful aspect of human existence, it should never overshadow the importance of living a fulfilling life. Beauty may come and go, but the essence of life — the experiences, growth, and love we cultivate along the way — remains timeless. As I continue to reflect on my mother’s advice, I am reminded to prioritize what truly matters: cultivating a life that is rich with experiences, relationships, and personal growth. In doing so, we discover a deeper, more lasting form of beauty — the kind that comes from within and grows stronger as we live a life full of meaning and purpose.
By Fiaz Ahmed Brohiabout a month ago in Geeks
KPop Demon Hunters
Okay so I’ve been hearing about nothing but KPop Demon Hunters since it came out. The kids I teach loved it, my cousin loved it, my roommate loved it. So I knew that it would at the very least get some popularity nominations so I knew I had to watch it.
By Alexandrea Callaghanabout a month ago in Geeks
Countdown: My Top 5 Anticipated Movies for 2026
What 2026 has in store for Movie Fans With 2026 already here, it feels like the perfect time to discuss the movies I am most excited to see. From highly anticipated sequels to original stories that will captivate audiences, next year is shaping up to be one of the biggest in recent cinema history. Movie studios are preparing to release a batch of projects that span every genre, from action-packed blockbusters and heartwarming dramas to thrilling sci-fi adventures and hilarious comedies.
By TheScreenAnalystabout a month ago in Geeks
The Night I Stopped Waiting for Wings
I was fifteen the first time I saw the wings. It was 2009. My best friend and I huddled in her basement, sharing a bag of chips, eyes glued to the TV as women in glitter and lace walked like they owned the air itself. They were radiant, powerful, untouchable. One wore wings so wide they brushed the stage lights; another smiled like she held the secret to happiness itself.
By KAMRAN AHMADabout a month ago in Geeks
The Materialists
Ya know when this movie first came out I thought what a shame it is that Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans were even in this movie. Because I love both of them and they are fantastic actors but the person that ties their characters together is Dakota Johnson and she’s just such a bad actress.
By Alexandrea Callaghanabout a month ago in Geeks
Sunny Deol Gets Emotional at "Border 2" Song Launch; Reveals His Current State After Dharmendra’s Demise. AI-Generated.
In a poignant moment at the launch event of the much-anticipated song from Border 2, actor Sunny Deol opened up about the emotional turmoil he’s been facing following the passing of his beloved father, the legendary Dharmendra. A true pillar of the Indian film industry, Dharmendra’s demise left an irreplaceable void in not only the Deol family but also in the hearts of millions of fans across the globe. As Sunny Deol sat before the media at the Border 2 event, the star—usually known for his intense and powerful on-screen presence—was visibly emotional. The actor, who had just recently finished shooting for the film, spoke about how the loss of his father had affected him deeply. In his own words, Sunny revealed, “Mera dimaag hila hua hain,” which roughly translates to "My mind is shaken." For a man of his stature, known for his reserved nature, these words were a raw, unfiltered expression of the grief he has been enduring in private. The Impact of Dharmendra’s Death on Sunny Dharmendra, often referred to as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” was not just an iconic actor but also a father who shaped Sunny and his brother Bobby Deol’s careers. Sunny has always been incredibly close to his father, a relationship that many fans had admired. The emotional weight of Dharmendra’s passing has left Sunny grappling with the reality of life without the guiding presence of his father. Though Sunny’s father had lived a full life and had been part of the entertainment industry for decades, his loss has still been a heavy blow. While discussing the ongoing shooting of Border 2, Sunny Deol spoke about how his emotional state affected his ability to focus. He shared that he had moments when filming scenes felt impossible, as the grief made him question everything. “Life has changed. I can’t deny that,” he admitted. Yet, despite the intense emotional upheaval, Sunny continued to fulfill his professional commitments, reminding himself of the legacy Dharmendra had left behind in the industry. Sunny’s resilience became a topic of admiration during the event, as he talked about how important it was to continue with the work and honor his father’s legacy through his films. The Emotional Tribute at the Launch At the song launch for Border 2, the atmosphere was charged with a mixture of excitement for the film’s upcoming release and a sense of sadness. The event, which was attended by the film’s cast and crew, was a tribute to both the film’s success and the memory of Dharmendra. Sunny Deol, with his eyes occasionally brimming with tears, took a moment to reflect on how much his father’s guidance had meant to him and how he still felt his presence with him. In his address, Sunny emphasized the importance of family in the midst of sorrow. He spoke about how Dharmendra's values, such as hard work, integrity, and humility, had been instilled in him and how they helped him cope with his current emotions. “I don’t have the words to describe how empty I feel, but I find solace in knowing that my father’s teachings guide me every day,” he shared. Family support during such a challenging time has been essential for Sunny. Bobby Deol, his younger brother, stood beside him throughout the emotional exchange at the launch event. The Deol family has always been a strong, tight-knit unit, and the bond between the brothers remains as unbreakable as ever. Both Sunny and Bobby have said that while the grief is overwhelming, they find comfort in their shared memories of their father, and these moments keep them going. A Legacy That Lives On The legacy of Dharmendra is so deeply embedded in Bollywood culture that it will continue to live on in the hearts of film lovers for generations. Dharmendra’s contribution to Indian cinema was immeasurable, and his impact on the world of acting, filmmaking, and family values has been profound. Sunny, who has often been compared to his father due to their similar on-screen presence, has carved out his own identity in the film industry. He’s known for his deep, intense roles and has established himself as an action icon, much like Dharmendra once did. But as much as he’s his own person in the film industry, there’s no denying that Sunny’s work is deeply influenced by his father’s legacy. In light of Dharmendra’s death, Border 2 has gained an even more significant place in Sunny’s career. It is seen as not just another film but also a way for Sunny to honor his father’s work and continue his journey in the industry. The emotional connection that Sunny feels to the project adds a personal layer to the film’s storyline, and it will undoubtedly resonate with audiences. A Grieving Son and an Unforgettable Legacy As Sunny Deol continues his journey in the film industry, the impact of losing his father will likely stay with him for a long time. However, as he has shown, his resilience and commitment to his craft have been his guiding lights. While Dharmendra’s absence leaves a profound hole, the love and teachings he passed down to his sons will forever remain, and with it, the legacy of one of Bollywood’s most iconic figures. For now, Sunny Deol’s words at the Border 2 song launch continue to reverberate in the hearts of fans. “Mera dimaag hila hua hain,” he said, expressing the raw grief of a son who has lost his father. Yet, in this sadness, Sunny’s resolve to honor his father’s legacy, and the strength of his family, shows the enduring bond that will live on through both his personal journey and his professional accomplishments.
By Fiaz Ahmed Brohiabout a month ago in Geeks
Esha Deol Pays Tribute to Late Father Dharmendra as She Rings in New Year 2026 in Dubai; Brother Bobby Deol Sends Her Love. AI-Generated.
As the world ushered in the New Year, Bollywood actress Esha Deol celebrated the occasion in a meaningful way, paying tribute to her late father, the iconic Dharmendra, who passed away earlier in 2025. Esha, along with her family, chose to spend this significant moment in Dubai, where she reflected on the memories of her father while embracing the future with hope. A Legacy That Lives On Dharmendra, known as Bollywood’s "He-Man," was a towering figure in Indian cinema. His influence transcended his roles on the big screen; he was also an embodiment of strength, humility, and enduring charm. Dharmendra’s contribution to the film industry was immeasurable, and his absence left an undeniable void in the hearts of his loved ones, including his children. Esha, who shares an incredibly close bond with her father, found herself grieving the loss deeply. However, as the year came to a close and the new one began, Esha made sure to honor his memory in a heartfelt manner. While many people mark New Year’s Eve with parties and grand celebrations, Esha chose to reflect on her father’s legacy in a more intimate setting. Dubai, a city known for its vibrant culture and sparkling skyline, was the perfect backdrop for her moment of remembrance. Surrounded by loved ones, she lit candles and shared a quiet, personal moment to celebrate Dharmendra’s life and the mark he left on her. A Tribute from Esha: Embracing Both Grief and Gratitude During her New Year’s celebrations, Esha shared a poignant tribute to her father on social media. "Wishing my dad was here with us tonight, but I know you are always in my heart. 2026 is for you, Dad, for everything you taught me," she posted, accompanied by a photo of her with a framed picture of Dharmendra. It was a moment that reflected both the grief of losing a father and the strength gained from his teachings and the love he imparted throughout his life. Esha’s words resonated with her followers, many of whom grew up watching Dharmendra’s iconic films and were touched by the close-knit Deol family dynamic. Her tribute was a reminder that the Deol legacy continues, not only through films but also through the values Dharmendra instilled in his children. For Esha, 2026 marked a fresh start, but with deep gratitude and reverence for the past, she vowed to honor her father’s memory as she navigated this new chapter in her life. Bobby Deol’s Heartfelt Message While Esha was in Dubai, her brother Bobby Deol, who also shares a deep emotional connection with their father, took to social media to send his love and support. Bobby, known for his more introverted nature, rarely posts emotional messages on social media, but he made an exception to express his feelings at this poignant moment. "Sending my sister all my love today and every day. You’re stronger than you realize. Dad would be so proud of you," Bobby wrote in a heartfelt post alongside a picture of them as children with their father. The image, capturing a rare, candid moment from their childhood, was a reminder of the powerful bond they all shared as a family. Bobby's message resonated deeply with fans who have always admired the Deol family for their unity and love for one another. His words offered Esha much-needed emotional support as she navigated through her grief, reminding her that they would always have each other, just as they had when their father was alive. A New Year, A New Chapter For Esha, the year 2026 is not just a time for reflecting on the past but also an opportunity to move forward, carrying the lessons and love her father shared. As the Deol family continues to grieve their loss, they are finding strength in one another and the precious memories of their father. Though the sadness of Dharmendra’s passing looms large, Esha has also turned to her work and her family as sources of healing. Throughout her career, she has maintained a strong presence in the film industry and has become a figure of strength and inspiration for many. As she moves forward, it’s clear that she will continue to honor her father’s legacy not only in her personal life but also through her professional endeavors. Looking to the Future 2026 marks a new chapter for Esha, but it also honors the legacy of a man who brought joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments to millions of people. As she rang in the new year, it was evident that Esha’s tribute to her father would not just be a fleeting moment. The lessons Dharmendra imparted will guide her every step of the way, and his memory will live on through her actions and the Deol family’s ongoing success. As for the Deols, their family bond remains unbroken, and through their love and strength, they will continue to carry forward the Deol legacy into the future, one marked by resilience, love, and an undying commitment to family. The new year may have begun without Dharmendra, but for his children, his spirit will forever live on in their hearts.
By Fiaz Ahmed Brohiabout a month ago in Geeks
Fantasy Cast for The Challenge: Combat of the Champions
Survivor did Winners at War for their 40th season, and it was iconic. We saw the best of the best return to play the game again. The Challenge should follow suit and put their best of the best against each other.
By Dylan Deckardabout a month ago in Geeks
Tom Brady, Alix Earle and a New Year’s Eve That Set the Internet Talking
As the clock struck midnight and 2026 dawned, former NFL superstar Tom Brady wasn’t exactly easing into quiet retirement. Instead, an unexpected social media storm erupted after he was seen spending New Year’s Eve with social media personality Alix Earle in St. Barths — a sighting that ignited widespread speculation about a possible new romance or at least a very cozy celebration.
By Raviha Imranabout a month ago in Geeks
Stranger Things Series Review (Season 5: Vol I, II & Finale)
For nine years, Stranger Things has dominated the streaming charts with its lovable characters, visceral sci-fi horror and affectionate tributes to the eighties. Many an audience has been captivated by the show; it’s a shame then that the end of this long-running saga falls short in several places.
By Robert Cainabout a month ago in Geeks
